On Thursday, Madhya Pradesh Cooperation Minister Vishwas Kailash Sarang inspected the construction site of a Rail Over Bridge (ROB) that promises to significantly improve connectivity in Bhopal. The ROB will link the area near Khedapati Hanuman Temple in Chhola with Dwarka Nagar Coach Factory, situated close to Platform No. 1 at Bhopal Railway Station. Once completed, it is expected to benefit residents across Bhopal, including neighborhoods such as Karond, Berasia, Station, Chhola, Arera Colony, BHEL, Minal, and Nishatpura.
Sarang’s Dream Project
Minister Sarang described the ROB as his "dream project," expressing enthusiasm about its potential impact on the city’s transportation network. He stated that after the project is completed, it will save approximately 15 kilometers of detour for commuters. The groundwork for the project, or "Bhoomi Pujan," will be conducted soon.
Will be constructed over six railway tracks
The ROB will span about 610 meters in length and 9.5 meters in width, and it is unique in its design as it will be the first bridge in Bhopal to be constructed over six railway tracks. Sarang emphasized that this project represents an impressive feat of engineering for India and is set to benefit around 15 lakh residents of the region.
The bridge is being constructed by Indian Railways at an estimated cost of Rs 90 crore, with Rs 72 crore already allocated by the government for the project’s first phase. The necessary tenders and work orders have been completed, and the construction is expected to take around 18 months.
Improved Connectivity for Bhopal and Surrounding Areas
Sarang outlined that once completed, the ROB will significantly enhance the connectivity between Old and New Bhopal, as well as link surrounding regions like Vidisha and Berasia. It will also ease travel for residents who currently have to navigate lengthy routes. Small vehicles traveling from Platform No. 1 of Bhopal Station towards Chhola are currently forced to pass through a culvert, while larger vehicles must take a 15-kilometer detour via Bharat Talkies ROB. The new bridge will eliminate these detours and reduce travel times.
Benefits for Airport and Train Passengers
Passengers traveling to Bhopal's Raja Bhoj Airport from the railway station will also benefit from the project. Currently, they have to pass through Old Bhopal, which takes considerable time. The new bridge will allow passengers to reach the airport faster, directly connecting them via the Chhola-Karond road.
Sarang also highlighted the convenience this bridge will offer to train passengers. Presently, many trains departing from Bairagarh pass through Nishatpura, but due to limited connectivity, passengers must travel to Bairagarh to board these trains. Once the ROB is complete, passengers will be able to catch trains directly from Nishatpura, bypassing the need to go to Bairagarh.
A Step Towards Smoother, Organized Traffic Flow
Minister Sarang concluded by emphasizing that the project is aimed at improving the movement of people throughout Bhopal. By making connectivity more efficient and organized, the new ROB will ensure smoother travel for both residents and visitors.
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